Embrace the opportunity to explore Germany’s second city and discover its hidden gems. With a romantic canal network to rival Amsterdam and bohemian districts choc-a-block with flea markets, pavement cafes and art galleries, pleasant surprises are to be found around every corner in Hamburg. Car rental allows you to see all of its best attractions and also gives you the chance to head beyond the city limits to explore some picturesque villages along the River Elbe.
A port pilgrimage
Hamburg’s historic trading clout has helped shape its modern identity and there’s no better example than Speicherstadt, an impressive series of red-brick shipping warehouses surrounded by waterways. The largest warehouse complex in the world, it was used extensively by merchants in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015. While some warehouses are still operational, others house fashionable cafés, shops and museums. Take a leisurely boat trip along a series of canals and soak up the scenery.
On a smaller scale than Hamburg’s other attractions, but no less impressive, Miniatur Wunderland is a must-see museum within the Speicherstadt district. It’s home to the world’s largest model railway, with more than 15,000 meters of track divided into nine sections. As well as Hamburg, the Alps, Austria, Italy and the U.S. are all replicated in superb, minute detail.
Past glories
Uncover history at St Michaelis Kirche. Situated in the Neustadt quarter, this beautiful church is a baroque treasure. Rebuilt several times since the 16th century, including after World War II bombing, today it boasts a 132-meter copper-covered spire that’s visible from miles around. Climb the steps to the viewing platform and enjoy sweeping vistas of the city below.
From here, head to the Aldstadt (old town) and uncover more landmarks. Follow the shop-lined avenues and seek out the neo-Renaissance Rathaus (town hall). Tear your eyes away from the lavish façade of the 19th century government building and head inside to take the guided tour of its ornate rooms and the pretty Italian-style courtyard in its center.
A taste of the ocean
No visit to Hamburg is complete without stopping by the city’s famous fish market, found in the bohemian St Pauli district. Traders have been peddling fresh catches here since the early 18th century and even today you can experience the buzz of this lively marketplace. As you wander past stalls piled high with shellfish, eels and prawns, tuck into a fish sandwich and enjoy the entertainment from the local bands who create an electric atmosphere in the market.
If all this experience leaves you wanting more, then drive to Blankenese, set on the banks of the River Elbe. This leafy district is a pretty place for a stroll – amble along the winding streets, peppered with half-timbered fishermen’s houses and beautiful villas, and drink in the views of the river.
Reserve car rental in Hamburg with Hertz and begin planning your adventure to Germany’s second biggest city, before heading out to explore the rest of Lower Saxony.